Handheld GPS Receivers

Featured review by Jordan Hufford

If you're looking to combine your messaging and GPS needs into one device, this is it.

I've acquired this GPS for a solid price of $300 through incentives of my workplace, and its the best $300 I've spent on gear. This GPS has accompanied me on any challenging hike, backpacking trip, backcountry skiing, or any trip into the mountains.  Communication (Requires subscription) As shown in some pictures I've uploaded, this GPS doesn't anything special in terms of features. But what it does do it does well. The communication aspect of this GPS is easy if you have a phone, and still very manageable when only using the device.

Read more: Garmin inReach Explorer+ reviews (3)

Featured review by NJCMQ8026

A quality entry level GPS that will will satisfy any expert.

The Garmin eTrex 10 is a great product. It's best used in conjunction with a map and compass as it lacks extra features such as detailed, color maps that are available on more expensive models. But let's face it, you should never haphazardly wander into the wilderness relying solely on a GPS to begin with, so get a map as well.  It has a fairly small B&W screen but it is not so small that it hinders ease of use or readability. The unit fits in hand comfortably and is small enough to place in your pocket when not in use.

Read more: Garmin eTrex 10 reviews (6)

Reviewed by Bob Peltzer

When used with the TT15 or T5 dog tracking collars this is a great tool for those off-leash moments when hunting or just enjoying recreation with your dog. The Alpha 100 receiver can also function as a stand alone GPS with mapping.

The Alpha 100 with the TT15 tracking collar allows you to track up to 20 dogs within a 9-mile range. It displays the track of each dog in a different color and lets you know when the dog has stopped and when the dog is barking. It has a training mode that can deliver a variable vibration or shock to the collar BUT I caution against using the shock unless you really understand dog training. Most dogs will never need such a correction. 2024 Update: I lost my hand unit in 2022 during a leek picking outing.

Read more: Garmin Alpha 100 review (1)

Featured review by LoneStranger

The safety of an SOS button connected via satellite to a monitoring response team combined with features you can use on every trip. Those features include two-way texting including localized weather reports, live updating of your personal online map and others you can choose or ignore as desired. The device and subscription service are not cheap, but for those venturing far afield, especially those who go alone, it gives a good return on the investment.

Lots of function packed into a pretty small package, the Delorme inReach SE is either a safety device with lots of useful functions or the other way around. Whether you carry it for safety or for the other functions it isn't that big of a load for what you get as far as I'm concerned. Measuring roughly 6"x2.25" if you count the antenna it weighs 6.8oz/194g on my scale when full charged. Not sure of the weight when the battery is empty :) Subscriptions Rates as of Feb 2017. Since a lot of people were asking I've added their current list of plans and prices for the needed subscription service.

Read more: DeLorme inReach SE reviews (5)

Featured review by Elizabeth McCoy

This is a must have item on a backcountry thru hike! GPS satellite communication device with tracking and text messaging capability and SOS.

I bought this device at a recent REI Garage sale for a steal! I've been wanting one for a long time and now I own one! I activated it immediately, which was easy to do. There are multiple different plans to choose from. I have loaded more than 50 trails and routes to the device and it is amazing! I'm super excited to have this device for my upcoming JMT thru hike in August. Piece of mind out in the backcountry will be nice for sure. Also the capability of letting my family back home know I'm OK and where I am exactly is pretty sweet! 

Read more: DeLorme inReach Explorer reviews (2)

Featured review by Mark Jones

Ever since I started backpacking some 20 years ago these GPS devices have had me as a buyer.  I have had two Garmin hand helds and 2 PN series hand helds. I purchased the PN 60 about 3 weeks ago and it hasn't glitched yet.  With the Topo9 software I can look at the trail we are taking before we get there evaluating the ups and downs and can KNOW where it is that I am.  I have been doing a program called Royal Rangers for over 20 years now. That program has had me hauling boys out into the trails of So.

Read more: DeLorme Earthmate PN-60 reviews (5)

Featured review by Soleful2001

I have owned the Magellan Explorist 610 since August of this year. I must say the pros are many and the cons few.

Pros: The user interface is excellent, intuitive and easy to use. Touch screen sensitivity is just right.  The three inch screen is bright and easy to read in sunlight.  The ergonomic shape feels great in the hand.  The build quality is very good with no squeaks, flex, or rattles.  There are only three external buttons: power button, camera button, and way point button.  The camera and waypoint button can be configured for other functions if desired.  The 4 gig internal memory and expandable micro SD port allow for huge data storage.  The 610 comes with Magellan's Summit Series  Topo and World series road maps.  The topo map is detailed to 24K, and based on my experience is accurate, and even contains trail details.  I have compared...

Read more: Magellan eXplorist 610 reviews (2)

Featured review by Michael L Larkins

I have owned GPS units for 10 plus years and use them exclusively. My eXplorist XL is by far the most superior unit I have ever experienced or field tested. It has performed flawlessly. I advanced my capacity with Magellan MapSend Software and my receiver does everything Magellan said it would. The details are endless and the accuracy is a 10 +++. I truely enjoy this unit and WILL trust my survival completely in the outdoor world with this unit. Also I have read a lot of reviews about Magellan support and only wanted to comment, I needed to be educated about some products and they graciously answered everthing very professionally.Sincerely AppreciativeMichael L Larkins

Read more: Magellan eXplorist XL reviews (2)

Featured review by Mike068

Basic OverviewThis is my first GPS that I own, but not the first one that I have used. I have used it pretty extensively for about 6 months. The last two firmware updates seem to have taken care of all the bugs that I have encountered. This GPS has good accuracy and I have had no problems acquiring satellite connections even under a thick forest canopy. I also find it easy to navigate and operate the unit itself. I have Accuterra Northeast and Nation Geographic Topo Explorer Deluxe installed and a 4Gb SD card with no issues.

Read more: Magellan Triton 500 reviews (7)